The City Commission on July 28 authorized a sole‑source contract with Precision Electric for up to $65,466 to install lighting at the temple parking lot in downtown Salina. Jim Kowach, deputy director of public works, told the commission the work would be paid from a downtown parking account established as part of earlier downtown projects; $463,800 had been set aside in that account for off‑site parking improvements. Kowach said the contractor had performed previous downtown lighting work and staff sought a turnkey installer to expedite the project this year.

During public comment Tony Johnson asked why the city did not advertise bids for the work; Rosemary Marshallina asked why public funds would be used for what she described as a private property. Kowach responded that the parcel is used as a public parking area for events and parades and that the downtown off‑site parking funds are restricted for downtown parking improvements. A representative of the temple confirmed the facility is used by a range of community groups and that the temple is undertaking fundraising for building preservation.

Commissioners voted 5–0 to approve sole‑source selection of Precision Electric and authorized the interim city manager to execute the proposal. The project is paired with a separate asphalt, curb and sidewalk contract for the lot; bids for that pavement work were scheduled to open on August 7, with commission approval tentatively scheduled for August 25. Kowach said the plan was to complete concrete and asphalt work and install the lights before winter.

Public speakers also raised a separate concern about partisan signage visible in a temple window; a temple representative said the building is used by many community groups and said leadership would address the commenter’s concern about partisan messages on the building’s exterior.

The commission approved the contract despite questions from several speakers about procuring through a sole‑source approach; staff said scheduling, previous vendor experience and the need to complete work this construction season were factors in recommending Precision Electric.